Acute bronchitis
• Concept and Etiology: Acute bronchitis also known as a “chest cold” is the
inflammation of the bronchi which are located in both lungs (CDC, 2021). It is
often caused by an upper respiratory viral infection such as the adenovirus,
rhinovirus, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (Story, 2017). Less frequent
causes may include bacterial infections and chemical or physical inhalants such as
dust, allergens, strong fumes, smoke pollution, and tobacco smoke. Acute
bronchitis deviates from the definition of health because it causes the airways of
the lungs (bronchi) to swell and narrow producing mucus in the lungs (CDC,
2021). This results in a consistent “chesty” cough.
• Classification: Acute bronchitis’ classification speaks for itself. As an acute
disorder, its duration period is typically less than three (3) weeks (CDC, 2021).
However, the cough can linger for several weeks in some persons after the
infection has cleared.
• Clinical Manifestations: Signs of acute bronchitis may include productive or non-
productive cough, wheezing, low grade fever, dyspnea and abnormal lung sounds
upon physical examination. Symptoms include chest discomfort, fatigue, mild
headaches, body aches and pharyngitis.
• Diagnostic Tests: Diagnostic tests that may be performed to illuminate acute
bronchitis include chest X-rays of the lungs and nasal discharge and sputum
cultures on a cotton swab to determine the microorganism causing the infection. A
pulse oximeter reading to measure the blood oxygen may also be done.
Additionally, pulmonary function tests and arterial gas test may be ordered by the
physician based on specific symptoms noted.
References
Centre for Disease Control (CDC). (July 1, 2021). Chest Cold (Acute bronchitis).
https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/bronchitis.html
John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d). Acute Bronchitis.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/acute-bronchitis
Story, L. (2017). Pathophysiology: A Practical Approach, (3rd ed).
https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781284142983
